Michail Antonio struck a brilliant double to “thrill” David Moyes and give West Ham some relief from their Premier League troubles.
The Hammers look set to march on to the Europa Conference League last eight as recalled Antonio because the club’s joint highest scorer in continental competitions. Bouncing back from two defeats, the Cypriot opposition were disposed of in the first half. Antonio’s second strike was a cracker, but he limped off with a calf problem.
He collected the ball from Declan Rice ’s drive forward, and conjured a vicious curler with his right foot - his ninth of the season. Antonio also opened the scoring. It was an excellent flicked header from the target man after he drifted in between the centre backs. Declan Rice launched the move with a snappy interception, feeding Said Benrahma, whose cross was perfection.
They should have had three goals but Lucas Paqueta, sent free on goal, didn’t have the pace to finish and was robbed.
Moyes led the Hammers to a Europa League semi final last season and wanted at least a repeat this time to ease the pressure and lift their domestic relegation form. Their dominance ebbed with a host of second half substitutions.
This ninth consecutive win in the competition wasn’t an easy ride, as they faded after taking the lead, with Larnaca in control and creating problems late on.
Boss Moyes said: “I am thrilled, a good job done. I’m disappointed with our performance and overall play. We didn’t play particularly well, but we got two goals and could have had a few.
“I made subs with Villa in mind but also because we were in a comfortable position. Important win. Cup competition and if we get to a quarter final of Europe two years in a row it would be fantastic. I am hoping for a semi final and a final too.”
Antonio was annoyed not to get three, and said: “At least we are ahead. I was so close to the perfect hat-trick, hitting the post with my left foot. We are more comfortable, anything can happen but we will be at home, with our fans, and I hope it will be easier and to get more goals.”
Asked if he will start against Villa on Sunday, he said: “There is competition in football and today I scored and I am buzzing for the challenge.”
After losing 4-0 to Brighton at the weekend he made seven changes with only Alphonse Areola, Nayef Aguerd, Declan Rice and Said Benrahma retained in the starting line up.
